Most distance learning sites do not pass the Bobby most simple test for
being accessible for students with disabilities.  But the problem is bigger
than it first appears.  These same distance learning systems are
increasingly used as a part of classroom courses homework assignments.  The
inaccessible systems are spreading like a computer virus.

EASI's Barrier-free E-learning course beginning August 5 and running online
for a month discusses the problems and, where possible, points to solutions
or work-arounds.  Schools also need to remember that, although they do not
create the inaccessible system, if they purchase it, they are the one held
legally responsible for its inaccessibility for their students.

Course syllabus and registration is at http://easi.cc/workshop.htm

As the instructor, I have been involved teaching online for almost 2
decades and been recognized with awards for my efforts to raise
consciousness about the needs of students with disabilities and have run
pilot experiments including Gallaudet University, the National Institute
for the Deaf and the Rochester Institute of Technology.  I have also taught
online for San Diego State University, the University of Washington, the
New York New School for Social Science Research

EASI is also beginning a new web site:
The National Center for Accessible E-learning http://easi-elearn.org



                 Norman Coombs, Ph.D.
CEO, EASI (Equal Access to Software and Information)
http://www.rit.edu/~easi
Professor Emeritus, Rochester Institute of Technology
E-mail: [log in to unmask]
         Cell (949) 922-5992
http://www.rit.edu/~nrcgsh
22196 Caminito Tasquillo
Laguna Hills CA 92653